Joseph (Joe) M. Chavez

Joseph (Joe) M. Chavez

January 12, 1963- February 14, 2025

Joe grew up in Wood Dale, IL. Joe was a devoted son who carried his mother’s playfulness and love of practical jokes with him through his life, later sharing and passing those traits down to his daughter. Joe’s mischievous smile, big personality and willingness to help others was part of what made his wife of 33 years, fall for him.

Joe and Kathy were married in July, 1991. Joe couldn’t wait to start a family of his own, and their daughter soon joined them one year and one week from their wedding date, their son joined them 2 years later. Their children meant the world to them both and they worked hard to build a life together- for the 4 of them. As much as Joe treasured being a father, he really enjoyed being a grandfather and sharing time with his family, extended family and friends whether traveling or at home.

One dream Joe had since a boy was to own a boat, in 1993 Joe and Kathy made that dream come true. Over the next 30 years boating became more than just their family’s pastime, sunny weekend afternoons on the lake became their second home and will be forever remembered with love and gratitude.

Motorcycle riding was another joy Joe had since boyhood and continued through his life. Joe made friends wherever he went, but had a core group he called his “brothers” whom he rode motorcycles with whenever the opportunity arose.

Joe did not have much of a formal education which did not stop him from working hard and becoming a successful Purchasing Agent, and later being promoted to Senior Buyer. He worked at multiple manufacturing companies, outperforming and always sharing his playful spirit in all his dealings. His humor, mentorship, and big heart to all is evident in the outpouring of support from numerous work associates his wife and family have received. Joe meant so much to so many.

Joe was an animal lover, he would go horseback riding with his wife, and at home, over the course of 33 years they had three family dogs. In recent years he helped his daughter with her 2 cats, fell in love with them as well, and with that funny, loving personality he made the sassiest cat you’d ever meet- into a lap cat.

Joe was a beloved and loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend. We will always miss his humor, his heart, his fierce love for us- but we will keep him with us in our memories and hearts.

He was preceded in death by his father, Ramon, and his mother, Belen.

Immediate arrangements will be private, his wife and children will host a Celebration of Life on Sunday April 27th at Oak Brook Manor in Oak Brook 10:00 am until 1:30 pm ct.

Our family is forever grateful to those who have supported us, and will continue to do so, during this very difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations to https://www.autismspeaks.org/